The main aim of fisheries research in Australia is to provide a background of biological, technical and economic information which will provide guidance for the efficient and sustainable use of fisheries resources. Much of the research already undertaken has been directed at formulating recommendations for management of various fisheries.
The Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) was established in July 1991 by Regulation under the Primary Industries and Energy Research and Development Act 1989. Its objectives include:
- increasing the economic, environmental or social benefits to members of the Australian fishing and aquaculture industry and to the community generally by improving the production, processing, storage, transport or marketing of fish and fish products; and
- achieving the sustainable use and management of fisheries resources.
FRDC investigates and evaluates the requirements for research and development in relation to the fishing industry; coordinates and funds such research and development activities; and facilitates the dissemination, adoption and commercialisation of results.
FRDC is funded by an annual unmatched grant equal to 0.5% of GVP (the average gross value of fisheries production over the three immediately preceding financial years) and by research levies collected from the fishing industry which the Government matches to a maximum of 0.25% of GVP. In 1999-2000 the FRDC planned, funded and managed 671 projects worth $47m, compared with 592 projects worth $37.3m in 1998-99.
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